Conceptual: two positive point charges value of E

AI Thread Summary
In the discussion, two positive point charges, Q1 and Q2, both valued at +5E-6, are analyzed in terms of their electric field (E) at point P along the x-axis. The electric field at point P is calculated using the formula kQ/r^2, summing the contributions from both charges. A key question raised is why the electric field from Q1 is not influenced by the repulsion from Q2, leading to an exploration of photon interactions and the principle of superposition in classical and quantum electrodynamics. It is clarified that while the charges create waves that can interfere, they do not negate each other; rather, their effects diminish with distance as described by the 1/r^2 relationship. Ultimately, the discussion concludes that the waves from both charges interact but do not disappear, leading to a net effect at point P.
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Homework Statement



Both Q1 = Q2 = +5E-6 and are harnessed to screen and in a vacuum.----Q1---A----Q2------B--------P this is x axis, A and B are distances

Homework Equations



kQ/r^2

The Attempt at a Solution



So the E field at point P is KQ1/(A+B)^2 + KQ2/(B)^2
My question is Why isn't Q1 E field affected by the repulsion of the two charges. IE if photons carry the force of the charged particle, why arent the photons affected by the presence of Q2 emitting photons 360 degrees. So to the left of Q2, Q2 sends its signed wave to the left while a same signed wave is moving to the right from Q1. Shouldnt they interact, that is how they would repel if not anchored to the screen.
 
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In classical electrodynamics, electric fields are governed by the principle of superposition, i.e., the total field at any point in space is the sum of the fields due to individual sources. In quantum electrodynamics, the principle of superposition holds until fields become very strong. This is known as the Schwinger limit.
 
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Ok i see it now. The two charges exert destructive interference, but the waves don't disappear. Once Q1 wave passes Q2 it combines and it diminishes as 1/r^2.
 
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